NEW ORLEANS – Here’s what Alex Boone said about Colin Kaepernick after the 49ers beat the Saints 31-21.

Q: How did Colin play?

BOONE: Awesome.

Q: What was your impression of some of the throws he made?

BOONE: Unbelievable. I think he did a great job. He had some pressure today, but he got out of it and made some great plays. I’m proud of him coming to this stadium in front of 75,000 strong screaming at you. The effort he gave today was awesome.

Q: What’s his demeanor like in the huddle?

BOONE: Very calm, very cool, very collected. He knows what he’s doing, he gets us the play and he gets us out.

Q: Was he always that way or has he developed it?

BOONE: He’s always been that way. Last week against Chicago he was the same way. He came in and said, “Ok, let’s do this, let’s go.” I thought he did a fantastic job last week. I thought he did a very, very good job this week. I’m just proud of him and happy for him.

Q: Does he seems like a veteran at those times?

BOONE: Sometimes he does. You see him in those key situations where you really need your quarterback to step up, and he’s very calm, cool, collected. You can count on him to be there.

Q: Do you assume he’s going to be the starting quarterback the rest of the way?

BOONE: I don’t assume anything. I’m an offensive lineman. I just do what I’m told. I go out and punch people.